Plantation Forests -- Biology of Plantation Growth -- Growth Rates and Wood Quality -- Choosing the Species and Site -- Establishment -- Nutrient Management -- Stand Density and Initial Spacing -- Thinning -- Pruning -- Pests -- Diseases -- Tree Breeding -- Mixed-Species Plantations -- Conclusion. Plantation forests are grown to supply wood and to provide environmental benefits, such as waste disposal, rehabilitation of degraded sites, enhancement of regional biodiversity and reduction of logging in native forests. In a highly readable fashion, this book describes the scientific principles which are used throughout the world to ensure rapid, healthy plantation growth. It is written for a world-wide audience, from forestry professionals and scientists through to small plantation growers, to describe how plantations may be grown responsibly and profitably.